I've always wanted to go to The Fat Duck - but... that is not possible as of now, and Dinner will have to make do.
It was one of the most phenomenal meals of my life. Anyone that follows me on Instagram would have seen all these photos but here are bigger (and clearer) versions of them, for your perusal.
Meat Fruit (c. 1500)
Mandarin, chicken liver & foie gras parfait, grilled bread
It was highly raved about in all reviews that I have read - but I do think it is more of an overrated gimmick (because expect no less from Heston). It was definitely not the best pate I have ever consumer, but the sheer joy from cutting an "orange" open to reveal... surprisingly not surprisingly something else was definitely worth it. The gelatinous, smooth and blemish-free skin of the orange is enviable.
Bone in Rib of Hereford Prime (c.1830)
Mushroom ketchup & triple cooked chips
Admittedly, I have never had steak. Nor am I very much a beef eater, if at all, and hence am in no position to judge. Moreover, I do believe that steak, like foie gras, will always taste good in a reputable restaurant. It was a pity though, that I had to get it in medium done because I am a fan of medium rare, for its depth and variation in texture.
Baked Sussex Pond Pudding (1670)
Lemon caramel & goats milk ice cream
Tipsy Cake (c.1810)
Spit roast pineapple
Let's just say... I think I will spend the next 10 years of my life trying to recreate this amazing dessert. Warm, sweet, but not too cloyingly sweet (like most desserts)... Together with the musky and boozy flavors, the soft fluffy *squeal* brioche... This was absolutely phenomenal. Definitely not to be missed.
Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream
One of Heston's other gimmicks - it was more of a visual spectacle than anything else. Watching the guy put in the nitrogen and churn the ice cream out... It was not the best ice cream I've consumed (actually speaking of which I am now cracking my brain as to the best ice cream - from the top of my head I think it is Gelupo's Pistachio Flavored Ice Cream, but I have to give it a better think).
Popping candy and chocolate hazelnut topping
Earl Grey Infused Chocolate Ganache
Which is really easy to make in all honesty - to the extent that I wonder why they are even serving this. But hey, third dessert, I'm not complaining.
Everything Else
The bread and the butter was nothing spectacular; the cocktails were, yes, a visual spectacle. Interesting, but honestly nothing to pay 17 quid for. I will definitely have to go for a wine pairing the next time. (I love how I am so sure that I'd be back again).
Conclusion
I'd have to agree to a very large extent with Picky Glutton's verdict - that the desserts here are truly something and it may be all that is worth coming back for. The starter was fun but such things are only truly intriguing the first time round; but the desserts (especially the Tipsy Cake) was truly phenomenal. If I do come by again though - I'd love to try the Snail Porridge and the Chocolate Bar. I have already promised Oisin that I'd bring him here for his replacement Valentines' Day and our First Year ^^v
DINNER by HESTON BLUMENTHAL
Mandarin Oriental
Hyde Park
66 Knightsbride
SW1X 7LA
Labels: food, London
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